GK Question

polity hard true_false

In Common Cause v. Union of India (2018), the Supreme Court recognized passive euthanasia and living wills (advance medical directives) as part of right to die with dignity under Article 21.

  1. True
  2. False

Answer: True

Right to die with dignity: (a) Common Cause (2018): 5-judge bench held: (i) Right to die with dignity part of Article 21, (ii) Passive euthanasia (withdrawing life support) permissible for terminally ill patients in persistent vegetative state, (iii) Living will valid subject to safeguards: medical board certification, judicial oversight, etc., (b) Limits: Active euthanasia/assisted suicide remains illegal; safeguards prevent misuse. Balances individual autonomy with sanctity of life; requires robust procedural safeguards.

Topic Article 21 Expansion - Right to Die with Dignity
Exam Relevance Right to die jurisprudence critical for UPSC Mains and Judiciary exams
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